WICKED (PART ONE) – Review by Susan Kamyab
Wicked has been a beloved stage production. Now you can see the story on the big screen in theaters with the whole family during the holiday season. Visionary director Jon M. Chu, who brought us Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights inspires audiences with a truly magical retelling of the emotional Broadway hit.
For those who don’t know the story, it’s about Elphaba, a young woman who’s misunderstood because of her green skin, and Glinda, a popular girl she meets at Shiz University in the Land of Oz. The two don’t get along at first. Glinda is completely unaware of how self-absorbed and offensive she is and Elphaba doesn’t make much of an effort with her. But when they are forced to room together, the two eventually get to know each other in a way that no one else has known either one of them. They form a beautiful friendship that moviegoers can’t help but fall in love with. However, that friendship is challenged when they have what they hoped would be a dream meeting with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
The film is a vibrant reimagining of the classic Wizard of Oz movie and spotlights the untold origin story of the Wicked Witch of the West and her once dear friend, Glinda the Good Witch. And in a lot of ways, I enjoy this story more in this version of it. It raises the questions – are people born evil? Are those who claim to be heroes truly good? But more importantly, it sends a powerful message about not judging people for the way look, but for who they are on the inside. Luckily, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s chemistry leaps off the screen. And if you have seen them together promoting the film on a press tour, it’s clear they have built a genuine friendship of their own. The two pour their hearts into unforgettable, award worthy performances. Especially, a surprisingly hilarious and scene stealing Ariana Grande.
Though some have complained about the film’s nearly three-hour runtime, the length allows for effective character development while moving forward impressively quickly and even leaving you wanting more. Thankfully, this is only the first part for the bold adaptation and fans can look forward to part 2 next year. In the meantime, this is the holiday film you want to see in theaters as you will be swept away by the dazzling visuals and moving musical numbers that undeniably defy gravity. Wicked is a breathtaking spectacle everyone can enjoy.
